Learning Objectives

Upon completing the module Antiretroviral Rx, participants should be able to:

  1. Discuss the recommendations in the DHHS antiretroviral therapy guidelines regarding when to initiate antiretroviral therapy in persons with chronic HIV infection.
  2. Understand the approximate risk of developing an AIDS-defining illness in persons not on antiretroviral therapy based on their CD4 cell count and HIV RNA level.
  3. Identify the key enzymes involved in the HIV life cycle.
  4. List the preferred antiretroviral regimens as recommended in the DHHS antiretroviral therapy guidelines for persons with chronic HIV infection.
  5. Discuss appropriate monitoring of CD4 cell counts and HIV RNA levels after starting antiretroviral therapy.
  6. Summarize the approach for patients who have not had adequate suppression of HIV RNA after starting antiretroviral therapy.
  7. Discuss the pros and cons of initiating antiretroviral therapy for acute HIV infection.
  8. Understand the relationship of acquiring resistant strains of HIV and subsequently having a greater likelihood of a poorer response to antiretroviral therapy.
  9. List three causes of persistently low CD4 cell counts in patients with suppressed HIV RNA levels.
  10. Summarize findings from the ESPRIT and SILCAAT studies.